The Board of Trustees for Truett McConnell University is set to announce its decision regarding the future of suspended president Dr. Emir Caner. The announcement, scheduled for Friday, follows a closed-door meeting where the board reviewed the findings of an independent investigation into allegations of administrative misconduct and the handling of sexual abuse claims at the institution.
Key Takeaways
- Truett McConnell University's Board of Trustees will announce a decision on Friday, September 26, concerning suspended president Dr. Emir Caner.
- The decision follows a third-party investigation into the university's handling of sexual abuse allegations against a former vice president.
- Dr. Caner is accused of failing to act on reports of misconduct involving his former colleague, Bradley Reynolds.
- The board met with the external investigator on Thursday, September 25, in a meeting closed to the public.
Board Reviews Investigation Findings
Members of the Truett McConnell University Board of Trustees convened on the Cleveland campus Thursday to hear from an external investigator. The meeting's purpose was to review the results of an inquiry into how the university administration managed serious allegations of misconduct.
The session was held in private, with local police officers and campus security restricting access to Odell Hall, where the meeting took place. Media and members of the public were not permitted to attend.
Background of the Investigation
The investigation was initiated after former student-athlete and staff member Hayle Swinson alleged that she was groomed and sexually abused by former Vice President Bradley Reynolds. The central issue under review is the claim that President Dr. Emir Caner was aware of accusations against Reynolds but did not take appropriate action.
Focus on Presidential Conduct
The fate of Dr. Emir Caner, who is currently on suspension, now rests with the board. The core of the investigation focused on whether he fulfilled his duties as president in addressing the accusations against Reynolds, who was a friend and colleague.
Several former students and staff members have come forward, accusing Caner of overlooking the alleged misconduct. These claims prompted the board to hire an outside firm to ensure an impartial review of the university's internal processes and leadership actions.
Independent Investigator Hired
The Board of Trustees retained Richard Hyde of Phoenix Research, LLC, an Atlanta-based firm, to conduct the third-party investigation. Hyde confirmed he would present his complete findings directly to the board during their September 25 meeting.
Allegations Against Former Vice President
The controversy centers on Bradley Reynolds, a former vice president at the university. Hayle Swinson's public allegations state that Reynolds used his authority as an administrator and spiritual advisor to manipulate and abuse her.
The investigation examined the timeline of these allegations and what, if any, steps the university leadership took in response. The board's upcoming decision is expected to address the institutional handling of these sensitive claims directly.
"The trustees will provide an update regarding the third-party investigation and any actions taken as a result," a university spokesperson announced regarding the upcoming press conference.
Public Announcement Scheduled
Following Thursday's private meeting, the university announced it would hold a press conference to disclose the board's decision. The event is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Friday, September 26, at the Odell Sanctuary on campus.
The board's statement is expected to clarify whether Dr. Caner will be reinstated or if further action will be taken. The outcome will have significant implications for the university's leadership and its approach to handling misconduct allegations moving forward.
The decision is highly anticipated by the campus community, alumni, and the public, who are awaiting clarity on the university's commitment to accountability and student safety. The board's actions will likely set a precedent for how the institution addresses such matters in the future.
